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Post by Blindside Tex on Jul 24, 2016 2:00:02 GMT -5
Ayla was tense as Ren held her close. Her vision faded black as Adriel tried to push into her mind, to work at her fears, but, nothing came. The memories of her beatings, the memories of everything that she feared were gone forever.
“Jak!” Cassie called as she gripped onto his arm, he stumbled and almost fell from the ship as it lifted up into the air. She braced herself against the mast, her arm wrapped around it.
Jak found his bearing and moved next to her, he too gripped onto the mast. “How is this happening?!!” He asked, his eyes wide as he stared back to Ren. He looked to Ayla whom was still unconscious in the captain’s arms. He looked to Giant whom had saved the two from toppling over the edge of the ship.
Cassie shook her head, “I…I don’t know…” She took looked to Ren and her daughter.
The king had stumbled and was leaning against the door to the captain’s quarters, he stare to the crew in shock, this was something that was unheard of. He took in quick breaths, this magic was incredibly strong, it was amazing to witness something so powerful.
Ayla’s eyes fluttered open as Ren gripped her more tightly, as they surged higher into the sky. She slipped from her arms as her mother took her. The princess watched as Ren jumped around and celebrated the achievement. ‘I’ve always dreamed of this’ Ayla smiled and let out a soft giggle as she looked to the captain.
“Are you okay, Ayla?” Cassie asked softly as she loosened her grip slightly.
Ayla looked to her mother and gave a nod, “Y-yeah, what exactly happened?” She asked softly. “How are we….” She looked to the clouds that moved around behind the ship.
“Ren saved us.” Cassie said with a smile. “She is so powerful with you at her side.” She looked to Ren and then gave a nod.
“Adriel was trying to tap into your fears.” Xavier spoke as he looked to the confused look on Ayla’s face, she didn’t understand what caused her to fall unconscious.
“Who is this Adriel? You mentioned him before….how did he do that to me?” She asked and touched her head. “How is this possible?”
Xavier looked to the clouds for a moment and gave a nod before his eyes came back to Ayla. “He is a demon, summoned by the queen. She called upon him to bring you back to the castle. So that she would have control over you once again so that she could force you to wed to Victor.” He sighed. “He uses magic to get into your mind.” He then let out a chuckle, “Though, he doesn’t have anything to work with anymore.” He tapped her forehead. “Luckily.” He smiled.
“What do you mean?” Ayla questioned, a quizzical look upon her face now.
“You have nothing to be afraid of, you don’t have the memories of the castle, of your childhood. He can’t use them against you. He could create anything he wanted to, but it will not affect you now.” He grinned before he stepped to the side of the ship, “This is awesome, Ren.” He grinned and pat her on the shoulder. “If anyone could do something like this, it’s you.” He winked to her before he moved back to the edge of the ship.
Ayla stepped to Ren, she looked at the wheel for a long moment before she reached out and touched the spoke with her fingertip, grazing it gently. Her eyes flashed white then and she took in a quick breath.
She stood at the wheel, butterflies in her stomach. She could hear Ren’s voice giving her orders as Ren moved about the ship getting the sails in place. Ayla giggled happily, truly happy in this moment. She could feel hear heart pound within her chest as she looked to Ren whom came to her side and gave her directions on how to handle the ship. She could feel the hot rush of blood in her cheeks.
Ayla stumbled slightly then looked to Ren, she smiled brightly then. “You…taught me how to drive the ship.” She whispered softly, she almost smirked as she looked to the wheel again. “I’ve never flown before.” She looked to the clouds again. “I’m most certain I definitely haven’t flown by ship.” She grinned from ear to ear. “You are as amazing as Xavier told me.” She gave a nod. “I…I see why my heart races.” She let out a small laugh, her cheeks blushed deep red. “You are incredible, Ren.”
The moment was shattered into a thousand tiny pieces as Adriel appeared behind Ayla and gripped to her throat. “You made this all too easy.” He said in a deep voice before he chuckled and leaped from the back of the ship. The two disappeared beneath the clouds.
“Ayla!” Cassie cried, she rushed to the back of the ship, her eyes glowing a bright blue. Just as she transformed to chase after the demon a huge flash happened in the distance. The clouds separated and rippled against the energy wave that passed through them. The blast shook the ship for a few moments until it became calm once more. Cassie looked to Xavier whom placed his hand on her shoulder. She looked back then to the opening in the clouds. She could see a blue ball of energy that collided with flames. Ayla was fighting Adriel. Another huge wave of energy came from Ayla which caused Adriel to disappear from sight. Cassie leaped from the back of the ship as she saw the light fade from her daughter’s body. Her wings sprouted from her back and she shot toward Ayla as she plummeted from the sky. She dove down at incredible speeds toward the ocean below. The demon’s ship waited for Ayla to fall.
Cassie reached her arms out and wrapped them around Ayla’s limp body tightly before she swooped back up into the air. She beat her wings quickly as they cut through the puff of clouds and found their way to the deck of Flotsam. Cassie landed and lay Ayla down gently. A bruise appeared on Ayla’s cheek from Adriel punching her. She had a few bruises on her rib cage as well, though, for the most part she was unscathed. “Ayla.” Cassie shook her gently. “Come on, wake up.” She whispered.
Xavier watched from the edge of the ship. “We need to kill that bastard.” He said with his arms crossed over his chest. “Him and that nut job Victor. They need to be gone so that they aren’t a problem anymore.”
Jak watched his mother as she continued to attempt to wake Ayla. “That would be great. But we need to figure out what the hell the queen did to her.” He snapped.
“Shh.” Cassie shushed all of the chatter. She felt Ayla’s forehead, it was burning hot. Her arms filled with black along her veins. Cassie placed her hand over Ayla’s head and shut her eyes. She began to heal her, though only the bruises disappeared. “What….”
Ayla’s eyes opened, her face instantly filled with pain. “Wh-what….h-happened….” She said through grit teeth, her skin became pale. She got to her feet with the help of her mother. Her eyes had a red tint to the beautiful blue. She let out a soft cry as she held her side. “What happened…?” She asked again as she looked to her mother.
Xavier moved and held Ayla up as she waivered. “Cassie, what is this?” He asked as he looked to her. She was burning up.
Cassie shook her head. “I um…I….”
Rydel came to the princess. He felt her head and took in a slow breath, “The queen did more than steal her memory.” He muttered. “I’ve seen this before…She used it on mages….I….I don’t know what it is, her Demon in the dungeon used to do it. It’s an injection that he created…that’s all I know…” He brushed her hair from her face as he looked to the red tint of the pupils. “As soon as she uses her magic it begins…I saw men die from this, we need to get her treated now.”
Ayla trembled slightly, her body ached, it felt like a fire was within her veins. She looked to Ren with worry in her eyes. “Ren…” She whispered softly, she was afraid. Blood leaked from her nose. Whatever the poison was that the demon had given her, it was taking over her body slowly. Killing her from the inside.
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Post by Raven on Jul 24, 2016 15:24:52 GMT -5
Ren stood at the railing, looking out to the vast blue sky. She turned her head slightly when she heard Ayla talking to her. Ren smiled slightly and then nodded her head “Hm… lingering memories come back upon contact, huh?” she stepped over and placed a hand on her wheel. She then blushed as she spoke of what Xavier had told her. “Ah - uhm” she looked away. “Yeah” she replied to Ayla’s compliment. She didn’t want to think about it…
Ren turned back around when she heard the deep voice of Adriel. She saw a glimpse of him - and then they were both gone. Ren ran to the edge of the ship and went to jump - but she felt a tug on her arm. Giant held her from leaping. “No” he spoke and looked down. Ren pulled against him and then she grit her teeth. Giant was right…. Potentially the entire ship could fall from the sky without Ren’s presence. No one knew how exactly this magic worked, and Giant knew that Ren knew nothing of it as well.
Ren turned her head as she watched Cassie fly from over head - diving into the clouds. Moments later she returned with Ayla in her hands. Ren exhaled a deep breath and moved to the center of the deck, where Ayla was placed carefully. She stayed a few steps back - her eyes looking over the black veins that appeared on the surface of her skin. She rubbed the back of her neck and then looked away. Ayla was dying…
She turned to Rydel when he spoke. “How long does she have?” Ren spoke
“I don’t know…” he spoke and then crossed his arms, concern etched across his face.
Ren turned and punched her mast. Her knuckles left a slight mark on the cured wood, but her skin broke and blood leaked over her fingertips.
“Get her to the captains room, clean her up…” Ren spoke with a broken tone, she then made her way to the wheel of the ship and took in a deep breath. The ship glowed a gentle white and shot forward, Ren using her magic to push the ship forward at a quick speed.
A wind barrier crafted around the ship, assuring that the wind didn’t push against the crew members as they moved about the deck. Ren held the wheel, her eyebrows squeezed together furiously. Her anger began to boil under her blood…
They flew for a few hours, until Ren glanced to the sky and laid eyes upon the northern star. Her hues calculated their position based on angle of the star and she knew then it was time to descend. Ren shut her eyes and the ship slowly began to move downward, not in any intense angle. 30 minutes passed and they made it out of the clouds, downward closer and closer to the sea. As they seem to hover over the sea - it some how appeared to truly go on forever. In the distance an island came to. They had been there before, not long after picking up Ayla in the beginning. St.Nova came closer and closer.
Soon the ship touched down into the water with ease, like cutting butter. The side wings disappeared and the ship moved forward through the sea once more. They pulled up to the port no less than 30 minutes later, docking easily.
The people had gathered at the port, they had been staring and pointing to the ship in the sky that had landed in the sea. Ren stepped from the ship and placed her hand on her hip. The crowd moved back and as Ren came forward - they split. All eyeing the captain and the ship…
“Xavier, Cassie, Jak, Rydel…Ayla… Lets go” she waved for the crew to follow. Once the joined her on the dock Giant stood before the ship, his arms crossed. He barred anyone from getting on, standing guard. Ren led the group forward through St.Nova. “We were here before, you remember Xavier? Luna may know what this is, and she might have the answer to cure it…” she spoke and lead them through the city streets.
They came to the Mystic’s shop, Luna stood at the door. She bowed her head to the crew and opened the door. “A pleasure to see you once more… things have changed so quickly, yes? You are here on much more grave matters I see” she walked them to her table. “Everyone.. sit” she held her hand out to the table, which had six chairs placed about it. In the center of the table was a plate of cheeses, fruit and waters placed out…
“Let me see the girl…”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jul 24, 2016 18:34:55 GMT -5
Ayla looked to Ren as Xavier scooped her up into his arms. “Come on.” He said softly. “You’re okay, Ayla.” He carried her into the captain’s quarters and gently set her down on the bed. As soon as Ayla’s head hit the pillow her eyes flashed white.
She snuggled in against Ren, her forehead pressed against the captain’s. Her heart fluttered within her chest as she placed her hand on Ren’s side. Her eyes slipped shut as she brought herself close to Ren.
“Ayla.” Xavier spoke his hand on her shoulder. “Try to stay calm.” He sat on the edge of the bed. He looked into her eyes that almost appeared purple from the red haze. “It sounds like if you use magic it is going to speed up the process, so, no magic, okay? Until we know more.” He gave a soft smile.
Ayla lay flat on her back, her eyes looked up to the ceiling as tears welled in her eyes. “It burns.” She whispered softly. “It burns….as if I have been lit a flame.” She had her arms wrapped around her body.
Xavier gave a soft sigh and lowered his head. “Just, try to sleep, okay?” He pat her shoulder and stood. “I will be right here.” He sat in a chair that was in the corner and leaned back. He knew the pain that he saw in Ren’s eyes. It was the pain he felt when he lost his family.
Cassie came into the room with a warm bowl of water and a clean wash cloth. She sat on the edge of the bed and wiped the blood away from Ayla’s nose. “You can’t allow this to take you, Ayla.” She whispered, tears brimming her eyes. “You’ve already been taken enough, don’t allow this to fully take you away…” She shook her head, “I can’t lose you now.” She ran her fingertips over the black that showed on her forearms. The line was hot as fire, like lava beneath her skin. Cassie took in a small breath and placed her hands on Ayla’s body, she allowed her magic to transfer, it cooled Ayla down. She continued this until Ayla finally slipped into a light slumber.
“We will get her through this, Ren will make sure she doesn’t die, Cassie.” Xavier spoke, his eyes sad.
Cassie looked to him with pain in her expression. “I don’t want to watch that girl lose, Ayla.” She shook her head. “This is bad enough, what happened to Ayla is enough. She doesn’t remember anything…” Tears rolled down her cheeks and she sniffled. “She can’t even remember Ren, and they had a wonderful bond, I could feel it. I could see it….it was strong…” She sighed heavily before she left the room.
Xavier leaned forward in his chair and stared at Ayla, her pale skin. She had slight rings around her eyes. She was very gaunt. It certainly didn’t look good. He stayed at her side , his eyes slipped shut and he drifted away into the world of dreams.
**
Jak stood at the stern of the ship, his arms crossed as he looked out over the sea of clouds. “Don’t let this consume you.” He spoke, his words directed to Ren. “She is alive.” He moved to stand at her side, “She is alive, and that is what it is until proven otherwise. I don’t care how horrible this situation looks. Just, don’t lose hope, Ren.” He placed his hand on her shoulder, his eyes locked on hers. “I know this is hard for you especially. You haven’t lost her. She still looks at you the same, the Ayla that you have grown to adore is in there, she wants to know you….don’t give up on her, please.” He then walked off to the bow of the ship, tears brimmed in his eyes, threatening to roll over his cheeks.
The king stood at the bow, he stared to the ocean as it came into view, St. Nova just a few miles out. “What happened to the mages?” Cassie asked from behind him. “What happened to the ones that had this poison in their veins?”
Rydel turned to her, his face full of pain, “You don’t want me to tell you, Cassie.”
“No, I need to know, so that I know what to look for.” She demanded.
The king took in a slow breath, “At first nothing, not until they used their magic, then the veins slowly turn black…they claimed to feel as though their bodies were on fire….if they used their magic further the pain would increase, the mages would begin to bleed from their nose…their mouth, their eyes and ears. They basically bled out from within. It is like a ticking time bomb and there is no shut off switch…not that I am aware of…and there is no turning back once it reaches a certain point….or at least that is what it seems. I’m hoping someone knows a cure…I’ve never seen the cure to it though.” He looked away then as they came to the dock.
Just as Ren called to the crew Xavier emerged with Ayla. Her arm was wrapped weakly around his neck. She held her side as they walked to join up with everyone else. Cassie looked to her daughter with sadness in her eyes. “Ayla…” She whispered softly.
“I-I’m okay…” Ayla breathed, her voice quivered with the pain that racked her body.
By the time they reached Luna’s shop, Ayla’s nose trickled blood. Xavier had lifted her into his arms, her head leaned against his shoulder and her eyes fluttered. He gave a nod to Ren as they went inside. Xavier stepped forward and set Ayla on a couch. He then stepped out of the woman’s way.
Luna stepped forward and began to investigate the cause of this illness. “This….” She looked at the black veins, the pale skin, and when Ayla looked to her the red tint to her eyes. “This is the act of a demon.” She nodded. She looked to Ren. “She was given Demon blood.” She nodded and placed her hand on Ayla’s burning forehead. “Essentially she will wither from the inside, Ren, I have nothing for you.” She shook her head slowly. “I do not have the power to cure this, nor do I have the proper herbs. What type of demon caused this?” She looked to the party, everyone looked back to her with blank expressions. “Perfect.” She mused. “Ayla, do you know the kind of demon that did this?”
Ayla looked up to the woman, “I can’t remember what happened…” She said softly, she looked to Ren and Xavier. “I’m…I’m sorry…”
“No, no….” Luna touched her, a white glow came from her fingertips, she grit her teeth as the blackness was pulled from Ayla’s skin, her face withered away slightly, she had taken on part of the poison, taken it off of Ayla somehow. “You will need to go to Winterhold. There is a small village far to the north, the eldest of the mages live there. I feel only they may help you. The village is called Arcada. Ask for Rose. She is the only mage that may know of this dark magic. She is the only mage left that practices the dark arts that doesn’t use it to destroy the world and everything that resides within it.” Luna looked to the princess with sad eyes as the black began to crawl up her arms once again, the blackness had appeared in a spidery outstretch on her neck, reaching up toward her jawline. Ayla’s eyes fluttered slightly, blood dripped from her nose. She sat up with Luna’s help and stood. The old woman looked to her and then to Ren. “More has been done to her than just this curse…I see…” She touched Ayla’s cheek. “No memories…” Luna whispered, “That queen is an abomination.”
“Was.” Xavier chimed in.
Luna looked to him and gave a nod, “It is good to hear that an evil like that is rid of this world.” She looked back to Ayla whom stood before her. “Be strong princess.” She gave a nod. “I have given you more time. I am not sure the time that you have been given….” She looked to Cassie then as she leaned against the wall, she wiped tears away from her eyes. Luna looked to Ren before she turned and pulled a stack of cards. She gave a card to each member of the group. It was her way of telling the future. She came to the king first. “Rydel.” She spoke and looked up to him, she flipped his card over and looked to it. She gave a soft chuckle as she looked to the intricate drawing of a King who stood on a pile of rubble. “Very fitting.” She gave a nod. “The broken king, he who must rebuild into glory. You must rebuild Portland, the castle. You must regain the trust of your people. The Elves need your guidance. You must return.”
Luna turned to Cassie then and flipped her card. A mage stood on the card, his hand glowing bright white. “The wizard.” She looked to the woman whom wiped away tears, “You must use your power to aid those of your party, you will help to get them to Winterhold.” She placed her hand on her shoulder. “Do not grieve. It only weakens you, Cassie.” She then moved to the next person. Jak. She flipped a card over and stared to it’s design. “Hm.” The card held a blade upon it, blood splashed upon the sharp edges. “You must be careful Jak.” She looked to him with her white eyes. “Danger lies in your near future, a battle.” She searched him before she looked down to her stack of cards, she pulled another card and flipped it over, “The wolf.” She gave a nod, “Danger may lie in your future boy, but you will come out on the other side. You are strength and valor.”
Luna moved to Xavier then, “This is as always what I see in your future Xavier.” She flipped the card and showed him. A knight stood on the card, a shield in one hand a sword in the other. “You sir are the strength of the group, you hold them together, you are the glue.” She smiled to him before she moved to Ren. She nodded her head to her and flipped the card over, “The oracle.” She hummed, “You must seek wisdom from your elders.” Luna flipped a few more cards and looked to them. “Love.” She spoke and looked to Ren, her white hues, a smile on her lips. “It has been ages since I have given you a card that is not filled with blight. This you must hold close, do not push it away.” She flipped another card over. She looked to the card and nodded as she looked to the intricate figure of an angel. “The spirit.” She spoke softly. “An unseen force watches over you now, Ren.” She then moved to Ayla whom stood just a few paces from Ren. Her hand held on her side, she looked to the old woman with pain within her eyes. “Princess Mélawen.” She hummed.
Ayla drew her brows together. She shook her head. “I…who is that?” She asked softly. “My name is Ayla.”
“That is your name yes, just as is Mélawen to your people in Portland.” Luna spoke as she flipped over three cards. “The Harlequin, your true feelings have been masked. Yes, the loss of everything. Your memory, it is such a powerful thing to lose, is it not? We take such small things for granted.” She looked to the next card. “Ah though with the loss of your memory, you will gain much power. The key.” She ran her old finger over the card. “Your true potential has been unlocked.” Luna fell silent as she looked to the last one it was of an hourglass. “This…” She looked to Ren and then back to Ayla. “You must go. Time is falling short for you. You’ve not much time left before the demon’s blood fully corrupts you and boils you from within.” Luna reached forward, a white light coming from her hand once again, the black veins disappeared, Luna gasped and choked slightly. She held her own side. “Go…” She muttered as she stepped to the back of her shop, disappearing behind beads.
Ayla blinked a few times, the red began to seep back into her eyes slowly. She looked to Ren, the purpleish haze in her eyes now. She took in a shaken breath as her skin began to pale and the blackness creeped to the surface of her arms. Dark circles formed around her eyes. It didn’t matter how many times Luna tried to take away what the Demon had done…it was something that was much stronger than she could deal with. “Ren….” Ayla looked to the captain with a pained expression. Her pulse pounded within her ears. She stumbled slightly.
“Woah there.” Xavier steadied her. “Come on.” He pulled her up into his arms. “Let’s go before it’s too late.” He gave a nod to Ren. “We won’t let you die on us.” He gave a smile. “You aren’t allowed to, Ayla. Ren needs you.” He spoke as he walked through the streets of town. He sighed heavily as he carried her onto Flotsam. He lay her on the bed in the Captain’s quarters.
**
Rydel stood he stared to the card. “Ren. Thank you for saving me.” He placed his hand on her shoulder, stopping her from getting on the ship. “I need to return to Portland. I want to continue, but Luna is right. The town is in shambles from the demons.” He stared into her eyes. “Please, take care of yourself, and please take care of Ayla for me. I do hope that when this is all sorted out you might stop in Portland. Consider it a safe place for you.” He paused and took in a breath, he didn’t want to go, but it was a duty that he knew he must. “Thank you, for everything. You saved Ayla, this, is much better than anything that she has had her entire life. I promise you that. You give her hope.” He then turned and was gone.
**
Cassie sat at the bow of the ship, she stared at the city and sighed softly. Jak was leaning against the railing he watched Ren as Rydel had approached her. He knew the king would leave. He looked to the card in his hand. The dagger. He began to wonder what was in their future. What was about to happen? Would he die? He shook his head and looked out to sea. Xavier came from the captain’s quarters and walked up to Ren. “Hey.” He said softly and gave a gentle smile to Ren. “Once we are off would you mind watching over, Ayla?” He asked softly. He pat her shoulder, “She asked for you.” He spoke as he moved down below decks to the guest room where he lay on his back, he was extremely exhausted.
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Post by Raven on Jul 24, 2016 20:30:45 GMT -5
Ren looked to Jak and placed her hands on her hips. She moved her shoulder back, his hand falling out of reach. “The damn audacity” she spoke and then shook her head. “Don’t talk like you know me” she spoke and then turned her back towards him, hands upon her wheel. Ren grit her teeth slightly and then took several long breaths. She wanted to say so much more, but knew she shouldn’t. Her words would have sufficed. She looked across the ship, eyes playing to Cassie and Rydel. She watched the painful expression over Cassie’s face…
“Damnit” Ren muttered and then her hands fell from the wheel. She turned just then and looked to Giant who had his arms crossed, standing a few feet from Ren. “What?” she spoke and placed her hands on her hips once more. Giant chuckled and then looked out to the sea of blue. He pat his side, telling her to stand next to him. “Krene” he spoke softly. “You feel guilty” he then lifted his head, looking to the birds that chased each other so high in the sky. It was crazy to see life up so high too. “You mad for 10 years” he chuckled slightly. “Never your fault” he spoke once more and then turned his eyes too Ren. “Ayla not your fault”
“Yeah but…” Ren tried to argue but Giant turned his head, looking straight to her. He shook his head and then turned around. “I cannot… change you” he smiled. “I never have… never will…” he added slowly and then he let out a sigh. “Hard times…” he then stepped away.
“Hey - “ she called to him. “Quit lecturing me, you damn ape!” she cursed to him and then huffed. Giant laughed out loud as he walked away, his steps leading down to the dock…
***
Ren stood to the side as Luna observed Ayla. She watched as she touched Ayla - some how absorbing some of the illness…or something. Ren’s arms were crossed, she watched patiently as Luna picked out cards for each person. She was impatient, especially since they had discovered that Ayla could possibly die… really soon. She shifted slightly to one side and lifted her head to Luna as she came - turning cards over. Ren reached forward and grasped the three cards…
The held the cards out in front of her, observing the images. “Hmph” she spoke and then slipped them into her back pocket. She continued to watch. Hourglass. No shit… Ren then nodded to Luna. She plucked a small bag of coins from her pocket and tossed it to the table. “Next time, Luna” she spoke and then followed the crew out. Ren’s eyes fell on Ayla’s as they looked to each other. Ren nodded to her and then continued onward.
Ren stopped when Rydel reached for her. She turned and stepped back slightly, so his hand would fall from her shoulder. She listened to him and then nodded. “I’ll do everything I can… After it is all said and done I will send you a pigeon… Good luck, Xavier. After all this is over I have matters to tend with myself, as I am technically Queen of the Fairies now..” she rubbed the back of her neck slightly. “I might request your assistance. Royalty and Formality is not my strong suit” she spoke and then bowed her head slightly.
Ren then turned and boarded her ship. Giant looked down to her and then closed the ship off. The men leapt over the boat after untying it and the ship left the dock. The people gathered once more, waiting to see what would happen. Ren took her wheel and then the ship began to glow bright white. Slowly the bow lifted into the air like before, and then it left the sea… The two beams appeared once more - magically out of thin air, and the sails were dropped in a single motion…
They grew higher and higher, the crowd at the port pointing and watching. Each and every one of them completely baffled…
They leveled out just above the clouds once more and then Ren turned the ship. She pulled her compass and held it infront of her as the ship turned in one large arch. They pointed North and a touch west, directly for Winterfall…
A few minutes passed and then Ren moved from her wheel. Her co-pilot stepped over and stood before it. “No movements, just keep it steady. Same as the water” she spoke to him, he seemed uncomfortable and then nodded to her. Ren made her way down the stairs and to the captain’s room. She entered the room and then shut the two doors behind her. Ren lit a few candles and then turned to the bed, where Ayla lay...
Ren walked over and stood over her, her eyes tracing the black lines that etched through her body. She wanted to say something, but nothing came. Ren turned and then sighed. She took off her ripped up jacket and set it down, standing now in a bloodied tunic tucked into her ripped pants. She pulled the tunic off and under was a tight tank top, also bloodied. “Damn…” Ren spoke softly as she stared to herself in the mirror. She peeled that layer off, until she was just in her bra. She pulled out a new tank top and pulled it over her head, and then she combed through her messy hair. Ren pulled her goggles off her head and let her hair topple over in a mess of brown curls. She dragged a brush through her knots, wincing slightly as some of them were bad.
Ren then kicked off her knee high boots and walked over to Ayla, sitting down on the edge of the bed as she stared to the wall. The ship didn’t rock like the sea did. She could hear the wind though, like a slight howl in the night. She then sighed. “All this shit…” she sighed. “Fuck” she muttered and then kicked at her boot. It toppled over and landed by the wall…
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jul 24, 2016 21:02:15 GMT -5
Ayla moved slightly when the doors opened to the room. Her brows were furrowed in her sleep. Her eyes fluttered open when she heard the movement within the cabin. Her eyes fell on Ren as she pulled her bloody clothing from her body. In the next moment her eyes shut, she could barely keep her focus. She felt Ren sit on the edge of the bed. Her eyes fluttered once more just before the captain kicked her boot across the room. “R-Ren…” Ayla muttered softly. She pushed herself up slowly, she shuddered as she felt the heat where she was laying. “I’m…okay…” She muttered. She moved slowly until she sat next to the Captain. “I will be okay.” She nodded her head. She looked into Ren’s eyes, her own were hard to keep open. The poison was spreading within her body like a wildfire on the side of a mountain with a strong wind. By morning there was no telling where her health would be. She reached up and brushed away a drop of blood from her nose. “I’m sorry, for all of this.” She looked down to the blood that smeared along the side of her index finger. “I’m sorry, Ren.” She brushed away another trickle of blood from her nose. It seemed that when she moved, any stress that she put her body under caused the poison to progress happily within her body.
Ayla brought her eyes up to meet Ren’s then. “I know, that this isn’t your fault.” She shook her head. “There is no way, Xavier told me. I believe him. He told me you wouldn’t let me get hurt…” She fumbled with her hands again and sighed softly as her body ached. She trembled slightly for a moment as pain shot through her side. Ayla grit her teeth as she let out a groan. “When-…when the demon, when he attacked us….you…your power…” She leaned forward a bit, her hand on her rib. She coughed slightly. “It was incredible, Ren. Your power is amazing…” She whispered and smeared more blood from her nose. “When he took me…he nearly crushed my body with his strength, he threatened to kill you, to kill everyone on this ship. But you were the only thing that came to my mind.” She paused as another wave of pain rushed through her body. “I-I….I don’t know you, Ren.” She stared into Ren’s eyes again. “All I know of you is what I have been told by the others. What I have seen in this short amount of time.”
The princess fell silent and placed her hand on her head, she clenched her jaw for a long moment. “I know that you are who they say….I j-just want to know you, Ren…I…I’m not…going to let this…beat…me…I want to….be…here….for you…” She wiped away a bit of blood that leaked over her lips. Her teeth had blood on them as she spoke. The poison progressing through her system, killing her from the inside. Her pupils were becoming more red now, the blue was fading away. “I’m sorry this…has all happened…” She whispered before she collapsed back on the bed, she couldn’t hold herself up anymore, the pain in her chest was becoming too much as the demon’s blood destroyed her lungs.
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Post by Raven on Jul 24, 2016 21:25:47 GMT -5
Ren looked over and then sighed deeply. “Ayla - hey - Stop, just stop” she spoke and then stood up. She quickly got a towel and sat down next to Ayla. She wiped away the blood and then placed her arm around Ayla, lowering back down into the bed. “It’s fine, really” she spoke softly and wiped away a bit more blood that trickled from her nose.
“Quit talking about it” she whispered. “You talk so much about who I am, what I am. You’re getting me all emotional and stuff” she muttered and turned the towel around in her hand, as the corner she was using was covered. “I know…” she spoke again, pausing. “I know that you want to remember, and you see all these things, okay? I know” her eyes had filled to the brim with tears. “You don’t need to be here for me” she whispered. “You already are” and then a tear drop fell off the chin and landed on Ayla’s cheek.
The tear rolled over her cheek, clearing the faint color of blood in a little line, until the tear soaked into the bed sheet. “It’s not over yet” she whispered and then stood up. Ren brushed a bit of Ayla’s hair out of her face and then leaned down, kissing her forehead. “We still have time” she spoke and then stood up.
She came out of the room and stepped to Cassie. “She is bleeding. I need you to tend to her, I will get us to Winterfall…” she spoke and then looked to Jak. She then turned and made her way to her wheel. “Everyone below deck, find something to hold on to..” she spoke. The deck scrambled, the men made their way to their rooms, strapping in. Each bed was nailed down, and the beds had belts that they could strap into, when the bad storms rolled through…
Ren held her hand up and the ship radiated a bright ray like glow, lighting up the sky and the clouds. Flotsam shot forward, cutting through the clouds, it moved incredibly fast. Ren’s eyes marbled over in the white color once more, the wind pushing strongly against the ship…
It was less an than hour that they had crossed the entire sea. The ship began to lower from the sky, coming upon the giant content that is Winterfall. She turned the wheel slightly to the left, to come in on the West approach. Her co-pilot had pointed the city out on the map. They would pass Hronzfine, the port city she had been once. And then the immediate first city north would be their destination…
Another 15 minutes passed and the bustling city of Hronzfine was under their keel. People paused in their spot - looking up as the shadow of the ship crept over the city, the wooden boat flying overhead. They were a good way up in the sky, like a blimp in the distance… but enough to question.. what the hell?
Normally this place would be inaccessible by ship, no river came to Arcada… The ship continued onward, lowering in the sky as they came upon the city. She stomped her foot on the deck twice. This was the sign to emerge, all was clear. The men came from the hull and looked to her, this flying was a new experience.
“Fashion ropes for now. I want you guys to put together a long ladder for the future use.” She spoke and then the ship stopped moving, hovering now. The ship slowly lowered on the outskirts of the city, until the bottom of the ship was only a few feet from the ground. Ren stepped to the side of the ship and then nodded. “Okay..” she spoke and then glanced to Xavier. “Go get Ayla” she looked to the captains room.
A moment passed and the crew stood before her. Xavier, Cassie, Jak, and Ayla. Ren lifted her hands and they all rose in the air, wind surrounding them. They hovered over the side of the ship and then went all the way down, until they landed gently. She looked up - her ship still floated, even though she wasn’t on it. It seemed that Ren’s spell was an enchantment, something she never was very good at, something that required much more power than she knew she had…
Ren turned and then looked to Cassie. “I hate new places so..” she turned her eyes to Cassie. “Lead the way. We are looking for a dark mage, Rose…” she spoke to Cassie. “I am going to assume you are a little better at the old wizardy kind of people…” she nodded and then looked to Ayla. Pain filled her eyes once more and then she looked away. “Lets hurry..”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jul 24, 2016 22:27:16 GMT -5
Ayla looked to Ren with saddened eyes when the tear fell to her cheek. She tried to reach up, to wipe the tears away, but her body was weak, “I…” She spoke softly but Ren told her not to. Her heart bound within her chest when Ren’s lips pressed against her forehead. “Ren…” She whispered, but the captain was already gone.
“I’ve got you.” Her mother was suddenly in her vision. “Here we go.” Ayla felt her body lift up and prop against a soft pile of pillows, to keep her from choking on her blood no doubt. Ayla felt the warm cloth against her cheek as her mother wiped away the blood. “You’re okay.” She whispered softly before she began to hum a lullaby. Ayla looked to her with heavy eyes as she coughed, blood came from her mouth. “Shhhh, calm.” Cassie spoke when Ayla tried to sit up. “Just relax.” She continued to hum until her daughter fell asleep. Cassie placed her hand on her forehead and attempted to heal her, a red aura flashed when she tried, it singed her palm of her hand. She grit her teeth as she looked to her daughter whom slept with a troubled expression on her face. “We will be there soon.” She whispered softly. Cassie pulled her into her arms and focused, she hugged her daughter against her body and her own body turned a brilliant green with the glow of her magic. The bleeding slowed to a near halt. Cassie choked and winced as she looked to her daughter.
**
Jak stood at the bow of the ship, his eyes on Ren. He didn’t understand her. When she ordered everyone below deck he followed the order and found himself in the guest room with Xavier. Xavier moved and looked to him. “Are we there?” The knight asked sleepily.
“Not quite.” Jak muttered. “Soon though.” He gave a nod.
Xavier stretched and sat up as the ship sped to incredible speeds. He nearly fell from the bed. He grinned from ear to ear as he stood and steadied himself. When Ren called them up to the deck he nearly ran to the deck and peered over the side. He smiled and came to her side. “You’re so much more powerful than you think.” He nodded to her before he found himself at the stern of the ship, looking to the city below. “I could get used to this, no hiking through the country side to get to a city? Just drop right in.” He chuckled. It was shortly after this comment that he was told to go get Ayla. “Of course.” He gave a nod and bowed his head slightly. Xavier went into the captain’s quarters. Ayla looked horrible. “Shit…” He muttered as he stepped forward. Blood leaked from her mouth, nose, ears…
Cassie was sobbing. “I…I can’t help her….Xavier….” She whimpered. “I can’t fix it.”
Xavier hugged Cassie briefly. “We are, right now.” He nodded as he lifted Ayla into his arms, she coughed lightly, blood splattered onto the rag that she held up to her mouth. “Come on, Cassie, we need you.”
Cassie wiped away her tears and stood. “O-Okay…” She looked to her daughter and sighed softly. Ayla leaned her head weakly against Xavier’s shoulder, her body was limp with weakness now. “We have to move fast.” She said as she walked outside to meet up with Ren whom carried them all to the city streets below. When Ren told Cassie that she was in charge she gave a nod. “I know where Rose lives.” She said softly. “This is my home.” She then glanced to Ayla for a long moment before she took off though the city streets. People stared to the newcomers as they shuffled through the city. It was a vast city of old magic.
The city was huge, snow fell from the skies, as snow was always on the ground here on this continent. Cassie led them deeper into the beautiful city passed the icy buildings. Above them the aurora borealis took place, blues and pinks dancing within the sky. The city was incredible, the world floated up above them, buildings suspended in the air on floating pieces of earth. It was something of a dream. But, it wasn’t a dream at all. It was an enchanted city, older than the times gave it credit. Cassie shivered and rubbed her arms as they came to a huge building that was tall, it was shaped with a rounded roof, a blue beam shot into the sky at all hours from this place. This was their temple. Where the people came to pray to the elders for guidance. “In here.” She spoke softly. They stepped into the temple.
Cassie was immediately stopped by a young woman with icy eyes, she wore a black cloak. “Who, are you?” She asked, her eyes looking to the others. “What purpose brings you to the Arcadian Temple?” She asked.
Cassie looked to her and then back to Ayla. “My daughter has been poisoned by a demon, I need help from Rose.”
The young woman stared to Ayla whom whimpered softly as the fires raged within her body. “I see.” She spoke, her voice soft. “This way. Don’t fall behind.” She was curt in her words. She stepped off along the hallways, statues lined the halls, lions, elves, mages, fairies, all of the sorts. She took them down spiraling stairs and through several other hallways until they finally came to a large set of wooden doors. “Here.” She pushed the door open. “Madam Rose. You have visitors.” She spoke as she stepped into the room.
A woman stood, a book held in front of her face, a ball of fire disappeared into a puff of smoke. She let the book down and looked to the group. Her eyes instantly fell on Ayla. She stepped forward, her red robes moving fluidly with her, she didn’t make a sound. She held a staff in her right hand that had a glowing blue crystal at the top, and potions that jingled happily upon her left hip. The glass bottles moved about with her. She stepped right up to Ayla and Xavier. Never minding the rest of the group. “They claim it--…”
Rose held her finger up at the girl to silence her. She looked up to Xavier. “Come.” She spoke and turned, she went through another set of doors to a room with a bed. She began concocting a liquid on the Bunsen burner. She poured liquid from several glasses and pinched in several flakes of other substances.
Cassie stood silently as she watched the woman work. She looked to Xavier as he set Ayla on the bed, her body trembled, her breaths were shallow and weak. Blood leaked from her eyes now, she was in the final stages of the poison. She whimpered softly, “R-Ren…” She gasped, her heart felt as though it was trying to escape the fire within her chest. She felt as though something was clutching ahold of it tightly, trying to pop it like a water balloon.
Rose bubbled the fluid as she added a few more things, the fluid was jet black, like the color of Ayla’s veins upon her arms. The mage turned and pulled a syringe from a cabinet in the wall. She drew the liquid into the syringe, taking in a full vial of it before she came to Ayla’s side. “Hold still, dear.” She said as she pulled her arm straight. “This is going to feel like ice against your blood.” She pushed the needle into her vein and slowly injected the fluid in. Ayla cried out in pain as the concoction was pushed into her system.
Rose stepped back and shut her eyes, she set the syringe aside before she gripped her staff with both hands. “The breath of life, and the light of this young mind creates an enchantment of protection and comfort as the air she breathes is purified I surround this elf with an orb of gold. This golden haze Is constantly purified and separated from any demon that may set foot near her. May this young elf’s space be protected of the darkness that has followed her. Lassen Sie diese bösen Wesen fliehen , durch Zeit und Raum.“ She tapped the staff on the ground and a flash of purple flew through the room. She watched as a blue glow lit the elvish star upon Ayla’s neck. Ayla opened her eyes which flashed white. The world turned ice cold as a blanket of blue covered the room. Ayla was on her feet, transformed. Her wings hung behind her. She breathed heavily as she collapsed down onto one knee. Everything reverted back to normal. Rose smiled as she looked to the ground. „You’re welcome Cassie.“ Rose looked to her and nodded as Ayla collapsed. She watched as Xavier cradled her into his arms and stepped back. „Come.“ She spoke and led the group through the huge temple. She stopped at a set of rooms. „You look exhaused. Rest. We will speak in the morning.“ Rose then stepped off from the group and disappeared through the halls.
Xavier set Ayla down on a bed and nodded to Ren. Before he left the room. Cassie stood there, staring to her daughter whom had calmed by then. „Thank you Ren, for getting us here in time.“ She spoke softly just before she left the room.
Ayla lay on the bed, she had her hand on her chest as she stare at the ceiling. „Ren...“ She whispered. „I...It’s cold.“ She giggled, „It feels so amazing to be cold.“ She smiled. „Ren look.“ She smiled as she looked to her arms, everything was reverted back to normal. Her eyes had a blue ring around the pupil that glowed blue. She sat up and giggled happily. „We should celebrate.“ She laughed once more as she looked to Ren with bright eyes, the ocean blue was beautiful in the light of the room.
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Post by Raven on Jul 25, 2016 21:11:39 GMT -5
Ren looked up to the huge floating city. She had never seen anything like it before. She thought her floating ship was magnificent enough, but in truth it was just child’s play to the city. She could feel the magical aura, it filled her like fresh air in the mountains. She breathed it in and exhaled, feeling a sense of complete purity… she looked to Cassie then and followed behind her. Her home? Why hadn’t Ren heard of this city before?
Ren shook her hair slightly, letting the snow fall from her hair. As they climbed up the stairs she looked up slightly – her eyes falling upon the colorful shades that danced in the air. She had seen them before, but not to this extent. It was as if the magic in the air enhanced them. Ren had never spent too much time up north, she never had a true reason to…
Ren then rushed up the next set, passing a house or two, or maybe it was a shop. She wasn’t sure. As they came to the temple Ren’s eyes fell upon the gorgeous architecture. The tall points to each building that emit an ethereal magic from its point. She looked over to a collection of floating rock that turned slowly in its position, like it was floating around but suspended in its place. From another rock came a waterfall that fell into nothing, until it was just a vapor spray that was carried away by the slight breeze that made its way through the city.
Ren came into the temple and looked to the woman who spoke to them, she stood behind the crew, arms crossed as she watched intently. She followed into another room once they encountered Rose. She stood by the door and eyed the potion she was crafting. She looked to Ayla who rest on her bed. She could hardly watch – the blood leaking from her eye sockets, ears…nose… it made her sick. Ren looked down and away, eyes hovering over the collection of herbs that hung up – drying. Vials with all sorts of liquids and colors…
Ren looked up when she heard the mage chant her spell. She scoffed slightly. She always thought ancient magic was silly. The enchanting was pointless, the speaking of spells… she always gathered that if you had to speak to cast a spell that you were weaker. Magic is a part of you, you control it, spells a what not… it was all ancient techniques believed to increase ability, but in reality all it did was focus your mind to the spell…
Ren then stepped forward slightly when there was a flash. She pushed through Xavier and Cassie and made her way to Ayla. Ren turned her head when Cassie spoke and simply nodded. She knelt down by the bed and smiled. This wasn’t a smirk, or a one sided smile, it was a real smile. Ayla’s smile was intoxicating, to see the life in her again was truly a gift. Ren took Ayla’s hand and placed her lips by her knuckles. Tears rolled down her cheeks and touched against Ayla’s hands. Ren then stood and helped Ayla up.
“What kind of celebration?” she spoke and smiled. “Certainly some food” she stepped forward and placed both hands on Ayla’s face, brushing away the blood. “A shower, for sure.” She chuckled. “Oh I’d like to soak in a hot springs again…” she stepped back for a moment, eyes observing Ayla. She frowned slightly for a moment.. “You don’t remember that though..” she chuckled. “Probably better that you don’t remember though” she scratched her head slightly and then looked to Cassie.
“What’s fun to do around here?” she asked Cassie. “We can finally relax a little…” she placed both hands behind her head and beamed. “I need some chocolate after all that!”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jul 25, 2016 22:16:54 GMT -5
Cassie smiled, it was the first time she had gotten to see her daughter happy. It was the first time she could see Ren beam with excitement. “Hot springs.” She nodded, “We have those.” She looked to Ayla and then took in a breath. “You should come with me, both of you.” Cassie smiled still, “There is something I need to show you. I’ll take Jak later.” She nodded, she knew Ren didn’t care for her son, but in the same sense she knew why, and she understood. He was pushy. Cassie turned and led the two from the temple. She took them into the city. “I grew up here as a young elf, I trained under Rose, whom you met. She is the one who sent me to Cisne to train with the elders.” She spoke as huge flakes of snow fell from the sky. She smiled as she looked to the streets, the snow never stuck to the streets, it was an enchantment set by the elders. Something that had to be done, it snowed nearly every day of the year here. Without such an enchantment the city would be buried. “My mother and father passed away when I was young, just the age of eighteen or so.” She carved through the city, looking up to the shops and the beautiful signage. It was clear that this town was ancient in its architecture. “They were very old, some of the strongest in history, Ayla, you are in direct bloodline of the Grimsbane family.” She looked to Ren then for a moment as she paused before a shop. The lights were dimly lit from the inside. “Come on.” She pushed the door open and the bell chimed happily.
Ayla paused a moment she looked up to the old wooden sign that read, ‘Grim’s Magic Keep’. She stepped inside and the smell of incents filled her nostrils. She looked around as she heard the sound of someone coming from the back room. The heels clicked at the old wood of the shop. “Welcome to Grim’s--…..” The woman stopped speaking as she looked to Cassie, a grin split her lips. “Cassie!” She moved forward quickly around the counter and pulled her into a tight embrace. “Oh thank the heavens I thought you were dead!” She grinned happily before she looked to Ren, then her eyes fell on Ayla. “Oh…is this? Wow….she looks just like you.” She smiled as she looked back to Cassie. “Where is my nephew? He didn’t want to come by? And what of Ollie?”
Cassie smiled happily as she brought Ayla forward. “Ayla, this is your aunt Evie.” She spoke, and then brought her eyes to the woman, she had the same ocean blue eyes, but her hair was a fiery red. She wore a beautiful dark blue dress with red sleeves and belt. She looked like a proper mage. “Evie, Ayla lost her memory.” She spoke softly, “She doesn’t remember anything, I have been locked away in Portland by the queen. She murdered Ollie….” Cassie fell silent for a long moment, Evie’s eyes filled with sorrow for her sister. “I will bring Jak by soon, he is here too…”
“Oh dear…” She stepped forward and cupped her sister’s face before she pulled her in and kissed her forehead. “Baby sister, if only I had known. I would have broken you out of that castle in a heartbeat!” She pulled her into another embrace before she looked to Ayla with a smile. “No memory huh?” She grinned and stepped behind the counter and lifted a book into her hands. The leather of the book was tattered and falling apart. “Take this, Ayla. You played with it the entire time when your mother brought you to visit.” She smiled. “Maybe, it will spark something? It is enchanted after all.” She clicked the lock on the front of the book and handed it forward.
Ayla took the book into her hands and played with the lock on the front, she took in a small breath as she flipped through the pages. Nothing. She searched and read through a few of the spells and enchantments before she sighed. “I’m…I’m sorry…” She shook her head.
Evie gave a lovely smile and shook her head. “No need to apologize.” She then brought her eyes to Ren. “Captain.” She grinned. “Ah yes, I’ve heard of you, well….” She moved behind the counter and rummaged through a few books on the shelf before she pulled one down. It had an intricate drawing of a horrible storm, a boat was visible on a huge wave. The Flotsam. “I’ve read of you, I should say. It is a fascinating read. You are quite a powerful fairy.” She set the book on the counter. “Take it if you’d like.”
“Evie, I’m going to take Ayla and Ren downstairs.” Cassie smiled, “I’ll be back shortly, I just want to get them settled in.”
“Oh! Of course! Do come back up! The shop is open for a few more hours, then I can come down and spend time with you.” She beamed. Evie was beautiful, from her smile to her expression on her face. It was clear in her facial features that she was a relative of Ayla.
“Come on.” Cassie spoke as she led the two into the back of the shop. She pushed open a door that said ‘Grimsbane Only’. Their family had owned this shop for hundreds of years. Cassie took them down a staircase that opened up into a beautiful living room area. A fire burned in the fireplace. The smell of the fresh pine burning filled the air, the pops and cracks from the wood made Cassie smile. “This has been our family’s home for centuries.” She spoke as she pushed open a door to a bedroom. “We can stay here for as long as we feel the need. It is safe.” She stepped into the room and opened up a wardrobe that was filled with clothing.
Ayla stepped over to a beautiful bow. She reached forward and lifted it into her hands, ice formed around the grip, her eyes widened slightly before a flash came from her eyes. She stumbled and fell into Ren’s arms.
”Rose.” A voice spoke from the shadows. “We have to push them back tonight, before they get to the cities.”
Ayla stood in the shadows she held her head as she stood up. “Hello?” She asked, her voice echoed. “Ren?” She spun around to see Ren standing there with her. “What’s going on?” Her voice bounced around in the memory.
“Yes, I have gathered our strongest fighters.” Rose’s voice came to Ayla’s ears.
Ayla turned and stepped through a doorway into the city street. A woman stood in a ranger outfit, a bow upon her back. The woman had ocean blue eyes. This was her ancestor, years and years ago. Time skipped forward causing Ayla to fall to her knees from dizziness. She held her head as she heard the sound of sword clanking together. She looked up in a tree to see this woman perched, she drew the string of the bow back and fired off five arrows at once, the arrows lit with a blue magic and honed in on their targets. Demons. She ran to the top of a hill to see the battle between humans, elves, mages, and the demons. Adriel sat upon his horse with his blade drawn, he chuckled as he watch the warriors fall to his demons on the battlefield. Then an arrow came through the air and stuck in his chest. He gripped it before he vanished in a plume of smoke, as did his demons. Her ancestor had chased off Adriel…
Ayla gripped onto Ren for support, her breathing heavy. Cassie looked to her daughter and to Ren. “What did you see?” She asked as she looked to the bow, it had never reacted to a family member before. She shook her head. “You need to take this bow, Ayla. You’re the first in centuries to get a reaction from it.” She nodded, “It’s been well over three hundred years since the ice has formed on the grip from the touch of a Grimsbane.” Cassie looked to Ren then for a long moment. “The shower.” She spoke and opened a door to a large bathroom with a walk in shower that had an overhead nozzle that made the water fall like rain from the fixture. “Get cleaned up, take whatever clothes you like.” Cassie smiled before she pulled Ayla into her arms, she hugged her tightly for a long moment. “I’m glad you are okay baby Ayla. Oh, Ren, the hot springs, follow the path behind the shop into the forest outside of the city, you will come to the ice caverns. If you want me to take you there, I’ll be upstairs.” She smiled before she left the room and headed upstairs to speak to her sister.
Ayla looked to Ren. She then looked to the bow that she still gripped in her right hand. “Did you…?” She asked, “Was that a dream?” She held her hand to her head. “My ancestor?” She looked to the bow before she carefully set it against the wall next to the quiver of arrows. The feathers lit up blue with the graze of her touch. She stood there for a long moment before she turned to the wardrobe and picked out an outfit which she held in her arms.. Ayla looked to Ren and gave a soft smile. She moved and hugged Ren for a long moment. “Thank you.” She whispered, “Thank you for saving me.” She then disappeared into the bathroom.
Ayla looked at herself in the mirror, the blood that dried in her hair, on her skin. She took in a slow breath as she pulled off her red blouse, it had dried blood stained into it. She slowly stripped all of her clothes before she turned on the shower head. She stepped into the shower and smiled at the feeling of the hot water rushing over her body. She tilted her head back as the blood ran from her body, the water tinted at first until eventually it ran clear. Ayla rubbed soap into her hair and on her body, she leaned into the water and took in slow deep breaths. Relaxing. She hadn’t relaxed since she had awakened. She couldn’t remember feeling this way. She could only remember the pain from her injuries at the castle, the fear she felt when she realized she didn’t even know her own name…
After a long while she stepped from the shower and dried off. Ayla pulled on the clothing that she had picked. She pulled on the black pants that clung to her thighs, then a dark blue tank top. She pulled on the dark blue top then it was long sleeve, the sleeves were baggy on her arms. She looked to the rest of the clothing, armor, a cloak. It was a ranger outfit. The same outfit that her ancestor had worn. It suited her well. Gave her a strong appearance. She stepped from the bathroom and smiled to Ren. “Should we go to the hot springs?” She asked softly.
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Post by Raven on Jul 26, 2016 14:34:40 GMT -5
Ren followed Cassie through the city until they came upon a small store. Ren’s eyes fell over the old wood and stone, she stepped inside behind the two, jingling of the bell rang happily. Ren smiled when she saw the woman come from behind the counter, moving swiftly over to her family. Ren crossed her arms as she watched, a little reunion…
Ren’s smile faded slightly when Cassie spoke of what happened, the reality hitting her in that moment. Sometimes while traveling she often forgot the truth of things, perhaps that’s why she traveled…
Ren chuckled slightly. A book? Of course baby Ayla would play with a book. She chuckled and then perked her head up slightly when Evie spoke of her. “Eh?” She asked and stepped forward, she placed her hands on the book and looked at the cover. Ren thumbed through a few pages – pictures of Flotsam and herself, her crew. “Huh…” she chuckled and then turned around, skipping through the pages.
Ren followed – her eyes skimming over the words as she followed. “Weird..” she muttered as she entered the living room. Ren sat down on the couch, her toes pointing towards the fireplace. Ren set the book down for a moment as she glanced up, watching Ayla touch the bow. Ren stood up and walked over, he hands reaching forward when Ayla suddenly fell
Ren stepped forward into the dream like world. She turned and searched around for a moment. As they moved through time Ren almost lost her balance. “Ayla!” she called out. She saw Ayla in the distance then, she rushed forward – leaping over slight ditch in the surface of the ground. She ran forward and wrapped her arms around Ayla, turning so that her back faced the crowd of Demons.
She turned her head slightly when she heard the wizzing of arrows, the demons exploded into ashes. Ren turned her body slightly and looked to the woman. She looked sort of like Ayla… the eyes, those eyes that followed the entire family. Ren’s eyes grew big when she saw Adriel upon his steed. She grit her teeth and…
Ren gasped, as if she had been under water, she held onto Ayla and steadied her. “Adriel” Ren muttered and then looked to the bow. It was the same one… Ren let go of Ayla and stepped back, her arms crossing over each other. “Every weapon has its story… it only speaks to the souls destined for it” she spoke and reached forward – she let her fingers graze the bow. She could feel its essence in the carved wood – it sung softly to Ren. “Hm..” she nodded and then looked to Cassie and she showed them around after the small event. Then Cassie left.
Ren looked to Ayla as she asked about the memory. “I did” she nodded. “Before you lost your memory you gained this… ability.” She spoke softly. “You seem to link up with the souls and essence around you. At times if you come in contact with something you seem to link up with the memories lingering, you see them play out. And for some reason… if we are touching – I see them too” she nodded and came to the bow. “There’s something about the world and you. You seem to be the link” she smiled and then was surprised then – Ayla hugged onto her.
“Yeah – uh – “ she then pat her back slightly, hugging her almost awkwardly. “Don’t mention it” she smiled weakly and then stepped back to the couch once Ayla went to the shower. Ren sat at the couch and opened the book once more. It wasn’t quite a biography, no.. it was a story. Ren chuckled as she read it – who ever wrote it knew Ren pretty decently… The way Ren spoke, moved, acted, it was very her.
“Bring me the prisoner!” Ren stomped over the deck of Flotsam, approaching center deck before her main mast. She drew her dagger and twirled it in her hand. Her tall guardian, Giant, brought forth the prisoner, dropping him before her feet – groveling for forgiveness.
“Do you know who I am?” She spoke – thrusting the dagger forth, pointing to the man.
“R-Ren?” he spoke with a voice littered with fear.
“Captain! Captain Ren! Say it!” She shouted with a grin upon her face.
“Captain Ren!” he spoke with a cringe,.
“And why are you my prisoner?”
“I – I gave food to that b-boy” he spoke and shook his head. “I’m sorry” he apologized suddenly, saying it over and over again.
Ren smiled and sheathed her dagger. “Indeed you did” she spoke and then lifted him up with one hand. She forced him to stand and she looked upward to him. She grabbed his shackles and took them off, tossing them to the side. “How about you do better than that?” she spoke and tossed him forward. At the dock stood a crowd of people, the little boy standing before them. The crew then brought forth a huge bag – full of bread, apples, pears, plums, all sorts of collections……
Ren chuckled. She lifted her head from the book and then flipped to another page. That man that she had called her prisoner today was now her chef, who traveled happily along her… she had remembered the day. She flipped to the back of the book and read the final page.
To my great friend Ren. May your story live long…
~Vynrey
Ren chuckled and then shut the book. Of course… she stood just then as Ayla came from the shower. She lifted her head and nodded in approval. “That outfit suits you perfectly” she smiled and then held the book to her chest. “We could, if you want” she nodded and then stepped up the small set of stairs to the shop.
“You know who wrote this?” she spoke and set the book down on the counter. “Vynrey was one of my first paid transports. She barely had enough, a writer she was. She wanted to venture some where fresh and new – to write.” She laughed and opened the second to last page. It was a picture of Ren and Vynrey. She was a smaller elf woman, short cropped hair, a book in her lap as she sat on the bow of Flotsam. “She followed me along for a few years until she went back home… writing about everything.. I completely forgot about her until now. That was over 150 years ago” she laughed and then pulled out a marker from the counter. She signed the inside cover and wrote “To Evie, may the storms fuel your desire, no sea to stop you. ~Captain Ren” she drew a heart next to it and then shut the book.
“Anyways, Cassie – might you show us the hot springs?” she asked. Cassie nodded and lead them outside, walking down a series of stairs from floating rock to rock. They an entrance that lead to a much larger rock, above it a waterfall fell into the center of this rock… Steam came from the top, and then through the doors as it opened for them.
“This is a kind of bar and hot springs…” Cassie opened her arms to show. It was a large room, lit by decorative lanterns hanging from the ceilings. There were several pools to choose from, each had its own bar. “Enjoy girls” she smiled and then walked away, back to the shop.
“Cool…” she spoke as she looked around. The room was like a cavern almost, it wasn’t very tall. But in the center of the room there was a round hole – where the water fell into. It then would spread out to the several pools that encompassed it. Ren stepped over to where a woman stood – handing towels to them. Ren dropped a few coins into her hand and smiled to Ayla. She led them to the woman’s dressing room off to the right side. She peeled her clothes off, dropping to her underwear and tank top. She then wrapped the towel around her and waved to Ayla.
They stepped to the pools, walking into the steps. Ren let out a sigh as she felt the warm water touch her skin, inviting her in. She moved to the next pool over, sitting on a under water bench. The water bubbled slightly, the steam rising and refreshing her pores.
“Drink?” A woman asked from the bar that they sat at. Ren looked up and then smiled. “Do you have anything for Fairies?” she asked and placed an arm on the bar. The woman smiled and then nodded. “Of course, though we don’t come across them very much. You’re a little tall for a fairy, aren’t you?” she smiled and grabbed a bottle from the cabinet behind her.
“Well… I’m actually partial Elf” she chuckled and then the bartender chuckled. “Oh, I see. Well, my beauty, what are you savoring for today?” she plucked another bottle and poured it into a glass.
“Something sweet, I think”
“Aha, as sweet as your friend here?” she spoke and smiled.
“Well – uh, I guess” she blushed and then looked to Ayla. Ren tilted her head slightly as she watched a bead of water fall from her shoulder, joining the pool of water. The lightly lit room played shadows and covered her smooth skin fairly. Ren then looked up and took her drink. She sipped it and then nodded. “Excellent” Ren spoke and then took another sip…
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jul 27, 2016 16:23:15 GMT -5
Ayla smiled to the compliment that Ren gave her. “Th-thanks.” She blushed slightly and then nodded when Ren said that they could go to the hot springs if that was what Ayla wanted. “Of course.” She smiled and followed Ren. She grabbed her black jacket from the floor and pulled it on, she took in a slow breath, the smell of her mother was still soaked into the material. Her perfume was sweet.
Cassie and Evie stopped speaking when the two girls came up from the home beneath the shop. Evie’s eyes played over Ren and she grinned happily as Ren spoke about the book. Evie leaned forward as she watched Ren sign the book. “I’ve had this book for 120 years. I bought it off a vendor in the south, I can’t even remember the name of the town.” She traced over the words. “Thanks Ren!” She was incredibly excited. “You’re a legend.” She hugged the bound book to her body before she rushed behind the counted and placed it on a display with a small sign that read ‘not for sale’. “I wish your friend would write more.” She played with the pages for a moment then chuckled and shook her head. “I’m sure you two have places to go. Go enjoy the town!” She looked to Ayla and her outfit. “Oh.” She looked to Cassie and grinned. “That suits you very well, Ayla.” She nodded and pulled another book from the shelf. It was thick, the edges tattered. It was incredibly old. “When you come back.” She placed it on the counter. “You should look through this, it’s our family history, it’s just the last five hundred years or so, but it will help you to know who we are. Your mother told me about the bow.” She smirked slightly, “That bow is perfect for you.” She pulled Ayla into a hug and sighed happily. “It’s so good to see you, Ayla. We will talk later. Have fun.” She smiled as she moved to the front of the store and flipped the sign to closed. She then smiled to Cassie. “I’ll have dinner for you downstairs baby sister.” She said before she disappeared into the living quarters of the home.
Cassie was quiet as she looked up to the flakes of snow that fell from the sky, “I’ve missed this place.” She looked back to Ren and her daughter. “I met your father in Cisne, he grew up there, his family has been in Cisne from the beginning of time. It is traditional to stay there. I was meant only to go through schooling in Cisne and then return home.” She paused and smiled, “When I met your father I knew I wasn’t going to move back. I knew. I could feel it.” She had a larger smile then. “It is a completely different feeling than anything else.” She giggled slightly. “We married and I soon had your brother, and then a few years later I had you.” She looked to Ayla. “I’m sorry that we fell for the queen’s trickery.” She bowed her head, her smile disappeared. “If we hadn’t, Ollie would still be here…”
Ayla grasped her mother’s hand and pulled her into a hug then, pausing their adventure to the hot springs. “Mother.” She spoke softly, a gentle smile on her lips. “I’m sorry that you lost dad.” She pulled her into a hug. “I wish I had known him, even if for a minute. I wish I could remember the time that I have spent with you and him, as well as Jak. I’m sorry that I can’t...” She hugged a bit more tightly. “I love you, mom.” She whispered softly.
Cassie’s eyes teared up and she sniffled slightly, she gave a huge smile at the end. “You’ve grown into a beautiful young woman. There is so much promise to your future.” She nodded and then they continued in silence to the hot springs.
Ayla looked around the beautiful room as her mother explained it. “Woah…” She gasped. She followed Ren and took a towel from the woman whom handed out the towels. “Thank you.” She said softly as they went into the changing room. She blushed deeply when Ren stripped of her clothes, she looked away as she pulled off her own clothing. She left her tank top on and wrapped a towel around her waist just as Ren had. Ayla followed Ren with a smile on her lips. She looked around the caverns more, still in awe. She stepped down one step into the pool before she pulled to towel from around her waist and folded it up and set it behind her shoulders as she sat down near Ren. She grinned to her. “This is beautiful.” She leaned back. “It feels amazing.” She giggled slightly. She reached and pulled a hair tie from the bar and pulled her hair up into a messy bun before she relaxed fully back. The sound of calm coffee house music filled the air. The kind of music you would expect in a martini bar.
Ayla focused on the barkeep as she spoke. She rose a brow when the woman looked to her, calling her sweet. The woman finished pouring Ren’s drink and then turned her attention to Ayla. “And what might I create for you lovely?” She leaned forward on the bar, as if to get a better look at the princess.
“Um… “Ayla blushed as the woman looked her over. “I…I’m not s-sure..” She stammered.
The barkeep flashed her a smiled, it was more of a side smirk than anything. “Don’t worry, beautiful, I have just the thing for you.” She winked before she turned and began crafting a drink. She turned around and set a glass down with a clear liquid in it. Ayla went to reach forward. “Ah, ah, one second there lovely.” She lit a match and touched it to the liquid. The flames surged through the liquor turning it a neon purple. A moment later a neon blue steam came from the top of the liquid. “Grimsbane special.” She pushed the glass forward with the same smirk on her lips. Her eyes played over Ayla again before she was called away by another person at the bar. She sighed. “I’ll be back.” She winked and headed off to the other side of the bar.
Ayla lifted the glass to her lips and took a sip. She smiled and looked to Ren. “This is excellent.” She took another sip, and another. It was like candy as it moved over her tongue and she swallowed the liquid. Smooth as can be. She couldn’t taste a bit of the alcohol. Before she knew it the barkeep placed another and lit it on fire once again. Ayla giggled slightly as she finished the last sip of her own. “Ren…” She spoke and giggled again as she took a drink of her second glass. “You’re really beautiful, have I told you that?” She blushed as she spoke. She then leaned back and sipped her way through her second glass, the barkeep kept up with her through several glasses until Ayla had very rosy cheeks, she giggled happily to the comments that the barkeep made now. The music switched to a EDM style beat and several of the people whom were in the pools stood and went to the center of the room, pushing past the waterfall and to a dancefloor that was illuminated.
“Are you just going to sit there?” The barkeep slid over the counter and grasped Ayla’s hand. “Come on, love.” She pulled her up from the water and walked her over to the dancefloor where she walked her through the waterfall. The water that fell from the falls was a perfect temperature, not cold, not hot, just right. Everyone danced around happily on the floor, laughter filled the air. Ayla looked around to the people with awe in her expression. She had no idea what was going on. “Come on.” The barkeep placed her hands on Ayla’s hips and placed Ayla’s hands around her neck. “Don’t be shy.” She smirked. Her eyes were a vibrant green.
The music filled the air, Ayla could feel the beats against her body, she giggled and threw her head back as she began to dance, she swayed her hips and let her body move to the beat. The barkeep moved about dancing with her, she gripped at her hips at points and grinned. Ayla had no idea what was happening, the alcohol in her system blinded her thinking. Everything felt so amazing. At the end of the song the barkeep stood in front of Ayla, she smiled and placed her hand on the side of Ayla’s cheek, she pulled her in and kissed her, their lips locked for a moment. The barkeep gripped Ayla’s hip and pulled her in closer. Ayla’s hands found her shoulders and gripped slightly as her brain tried to process what was happening. The woman took a step back and grinned. “I’m off soon, you know? I’d love to get to know you better.” She smiled and traced Ayla’s lips for a moment before she turned and walked back to the bar. She slid across the counter and began pouring drinks for all of the men and women that came back to the counter at the end of the song.
Ayla was the only one still standing on the dance floor. Her heart raced, her breaths were quick. During that kiss she had seen a flash of her first kiss with Ren. The kiss in her home in Cisne. She remembered being so close to Ren. The butterflies in her stomach. “Ren….” She looked around, searching for her.
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Post by Raven on Jul 27, 2016 17:03:12 GMT -5
Ren sipped on her drink as she looked to the bartender. Ren’s eyebrows squeezed together and she rubbed the back of her neck slightly, groaning as her body began to relax in the warmth of the water. She sat her towel on the edge of the pool where she sat, she sunk into the water and placed her head down on the towel. “Mmm” Ren moaned softly, her voice muffled by the music in the air.
She hadn’t even finished her first drink by the time that Ayla has finished her second. “H-hey, you should slow down there” she spoke and moved over towards Ayla. When the music changed Ren glanced upward – to the ceiling. Where was this music come from? There was a tap on her shoulder and a man sat next to her. Ren turned her head to him and then back to Ayla – she was pulled up by the bartender.
The guy tapped her again and Ren looked back to him. “What?” she looked to him, crossing her arms. “Hey – um, sorry. To interrupt, but you’re captain Ren, right?” he asked and smiled brightly. Ren chuckled and nodded once more. She glanced back to Ayla – she was dancing, it seemed, it was hard to see through the waterfall.
“Yeah – I am” Ren grinned and took another sip of her drink.
“Let me buy you one of those” he spoke as he pointed to her drink.
“So is it true that you really sink ships with a hand drill?” he laughed loudly and held his drink to his lips, taking a big sip. A bartender had came over, not the same one and made another drink for Ren.
“Yeah, that’s my signature isn’t it? They never see it coming” Ren smirked to one side and then finished her drink. “All those guys just think – let me try and shoot at this ship, right? No strategy” she laughed then and held her drink up, to clink with his.
“Are you a sailor?” she questioned him. This man was tall, muscular, he had short cropped hair, he could be if he wanted…
“No, I wish, no. I am just a butcher” he spoke and clinked his drink against hers. “So what is your latest adventure?” he asked, taking another sip.
Ren glanced back, Ayla was still beyond that water fall. Ren looked back and then took another sip. “It’s been a very hectic one. This is the first time in months that I’ve been able to slightly relax. I happened upon the princess of Portland. A whole bunch of drama, yada yada. Currently I am being chased by the despair demon Adriel, I am sure you’ve heard before. Soon I will make my way back home to clear up some business and re-establish a government over the fairies and yeah. A whole lot of bullshit” she laughed.
“To the bullshit” the man spoke loudly and then took a big glug of his ale.
“The bullshit, aye!” Ren spoke and laughed.
She leaned forward and placed a kiss upon his cheek. “Well, sir butcher. I wish you the best” she bowed her head slightly and then set her empty glass on the table. The elf touched his cheek and then smiled, nodding his head.
Ren stood from the water, stepping over the ledge of the pool. The water ran down her legs, her footsteps leading a wet track from her spot. She stepped through the waterfall and came up behind Ayla. She wrapped her arms around her waist from behind, hugging her slightly. “A social butterfly you are” she chuckled and then turned Ayla around.
“You okay? Your cheeks are on fire” she brought her hand up to Ayla’s cheeks and touched them. “Did you have a flash?” she spoke and then placed her hand about her waist. “Looks like all that drink is getting to you, lady” she spoke and then chuckled. “Lets get you out of here, some coffee or water, something.” She took her hand and led her to the girls room, slowly though. Ren grabbed a towel off the stack and opened it up.
She went towards Ayla – but her feet lost grip on the tile floor. She slipped and fell towards Ayla. She ended up pinning Ayla against the wall, her arms gripping her waist, she was pressed against her. “H-hi” she whispered, blushing hard. She situated herself and then took the towel, rubbing it over Ayla’s arms and stomach, drying her off for her. Ren paused for a moment and then let out a loud laugh, the drink was certainly guiding her.
“I’m sorry” she laughed again. “I don’t drink much, for a sailor for sure” she chuckled and then paused. She could taste Ayla’s breath, the sweet drink with a hint of liquor. “I miss you” she whispered softly. She leaned forward then and locked her lips with Ayla’s. She kissed her passionately. Ren guide her hands up Ayla’s body, locking behind her neck as she pressed herself against her. “so much” she whispered between a kiss and then tilted her head, her lips leading Ayla’s.
Ren stepped back after the long kiss, before it could get too intense. She pulled at another towel and wiped herself off. She blushed hard and looked away. “Hah – sorry” she chuckled and brought the towel up to her shoulders and side. “Lets uh – get some food” she spoke after she dried off. She stepped into a small shower like cubby. The little room whirred with magic and then the water was absorbed from her body. The towels were simply for the feel. Ren ran her hands over her underwear, dry as can be. She threw her clothes back on and pushed her goggles over her hair, holding it out of her face.
Ren turned and then smiled, the drink still guiding her notions. “Come on” she spoke and held her hand out. They came out of the bar and stood in the middle of a large platform that was a small street, leading to other bars and areas. To the corner was a café. “Perfect” she smiled and guided Ayla down the street.
“Get some food in your belly, some coffee. Let you sober up” she spoke and opened the door to the café.
She led her to a boot hand sat down. “You know… we met at a café” she spoke and was greated by a waitress. “Two coffees, please” she spoke and then looked to Ayla. “I love café’s. Breakfast food is my favorite” she chuckled. “you uh – you made me pancakes not too long ago. It was super adorable” she spoke and opened the menu. “Which I’ll likely order some form of pancakes” she chuckled. “Fluffy magic bread” she spoke and then looked up to Ayla.
The waitress poured two cups of coffee, she set down creamer and a bowl of cube sugar. Ren picked up her coffee and took a sip. It was perfect, not to hot, and it was perfectly strong. “And this” she held the cup up. “I don’t drink much coffee on the ship. I love this stuff” she took another sip and flipped the menu over.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jul 27, 2016 17:45:35 GMT -5
Ayla took in a sharp breath when Ren came up behind her. Her touch caused a shockwave to sprint over her body. Ayla looked to Ren with her ocean blue eyes, a smile on her lips now. “I’m okay.” She whispered and giggled slightly. Ayla was about to speak of the memory when Ren cut her off, telling her the drink was getting to her. She smiled and followed Ren as she led her back to the changing rooms. Ayla followed Ren with her eyes when she grabbed the towel. She gasped when Ren fell into her, gripping at her waist. “H-Hi Ren.” She giggled, the drink clearly guiding her as well as she wrapped her arms around Ren’s neck. It was then that Ren took her completely off guard. ’I miss you’ The kiss. It sent fireworks through her body, shockwaves, the world stopped. She could hear her heart pounding within her ears. Ayla kissed her back, matching the passion, she watched Ren in silence as she stepped back and apologized. That moment felt like it had lasted forever, and in the same respect it was gone in a second. Ayla blushed a deep red as she looked to Ren, she couldn’t get the smile from her lips, it was plastered there as she watched the captain, listening to her words.
When Ren went into the changing stall she entered her own and giggled as she felt the water droplets pulled from her skin. She leaned her head back as the water was dried from her hair in seconds. She then pulled on her new clothing, it suited her well, the deep blue of the fabric, the black, the white accents. It was perfect. She stepped from the stall and took Ren’s hand as she reached out to her. She felt so warm and cozy inside. Her cheeks blushed again as she looked over the captain. She was falling for her all over again. “In Portland?” Ayla asked as she looked around the café. She listened to Ren then as she spoke. “What are pancakes?” She asked as Ren stated that they were magical. Ayla looked over the menu and giggled, her cheeks flushing red when Ren looked up to her. “You…” She looked over Ren, “You are magic, Ren. You are the definition of magic.” She hummed and giggled. She leaned back in the booth when the coffee came and listened to the captain once more.
Ayla took a sip from the coffee mug and smiled. The waitress set down a plate of warm bread rolls and cinnamon butter in front of them and stepped off. She couldn’t take her eyes from Ren, she traced her features, over and over again. She blushed deeply and giggled softly. “I-I’m sorry…” She spoke as her eyes locked on Ren’s she looked down as she flipped her menu, she fumbled and dropped it onto the table and laughed again. “I-….” She looked back to Ren, “I’m sorry….I’ve never…” She shook her head, “I didn’t know that stuff…” She giggled and then took a sip from her coffee before she placed butter on the bread and took a bite. She grinned happily and hummed. It was so good, warm and fluffy. “Oh….this is the best bread…I…I have never had bread this good.” She giggled then and leaned back in the booth. Ayla looked up to Ren and blushed once more as the waitress came back. “I’ll um…I’ll have pancakes.” She smiled before she looked back across the booth at the captain.
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Post by Raven on Jul 28, 2016 14:10:39 GMT -5
Ren chuckled. What are pancakes? “That’s not the first time you’ve asked that” she chuckled. “To board my ship I told you that you had to learn and make them for me. Which you picked up a cook book on our adventure. Chef says you sat in the kitchen and practiced for a few hours here and there. You would get so irked when the pancakes burned a little” she laughed and set her menu down. “You had to make them just right” she grinned and then looked over the options.
“I’ll take the strawberry and chocolate pancakes” she spoke and handed the menu over. Ren chuckled and then shook her head. “You remembered anything about me” she grinned “You’d remember that I hate compliments” she set her cup down and poured another glass. “They’re okay, I mean. I don’t mind, I just don’t know what to say to them” she took another sip. “I’m Ren, that’s all I am.” She then leaned back in the booth and then shook her head, chuckling. Her world felt light, the strong buzz still followed her. “I’ve done things, sure, books and songs about me. But I don’t do it for that”
Ren watched her fumble. “I know you don’t know, Ayla. That’s why I’m telling you. I’m trying to help you. I know you’re lost and confused, but just go with it. Listen to what we have to say, let us be your memory.” She chuckled “You apologize too much. Get over it” she dropped a cube of sugar in her drink and stirred it slightly. “The sun still falls and the moon rises, despite everything. That’s what I tell myself… In those hardest moments. There will be a day, a week from now, a month, maybe two - things won’t be the same anymore. I just had to get through it, and before I know it… I’m basking in the glory of my past” she looked to the waitress as she set her pancakes down.
Ren picked up her fork and dug it into the pancakes, taking a huge bite. She savored the delightful flavor that rolled over her tongue. Ren ate her pancakes with fury, happily. The more she ate and drank the more sober she felt, the friendly lightweight feeling floating away. Ren finished her plate and pushed it to the side. “So good” she groaned and stretched her arms out.
Once Ayla was done Ren plopped a few coins on the table and stood up. “Come on, we’ve had a fun night. Lets go back, get some rest aye?” she led Ayla out of the shop and stood in the street.
Ren was suddenly knocked over - the bartender from before tackled her, a knife to Ren’s throat. “Hand over the girl” she spoke. She looked different. Her teeth were sharp, her tongue long and slithery like, her eyes looked that of a snake. Ren gripped the woman’s arm and pushed her back with force. “Yeah right!” Ren shouted and launched forward. Ren punched the girl in her face. The bartender fell back, she withered on the ground and then suddenly shot up on her feet with agility. The woman moved her arm, slicing Ren across the upper arm.
Ren glanced down and then stopped midstance. She tilted her head and then shook her head no. Ren leapt forward and kicked the woman in her knees, and then she brought her elbow down on her back as she leaned over in pain. Ren then kneed her face as she buckled, finally she brought her leg back and kicked the woman in the ribs - a loud crack filling the air.
“Who are you?” she jumped forward. By now a small crowd had gathered, watching the two. Ren gripped the woman by the collar and held her up as she crumbled to the ground. “What are you?” she shouted.
The woman grinned, blood on her lips. Her snake like tongue moved over lips, shaking forward, and then zipping back into her mouth. “I’ll let Adriel know” she spoke. Ren grit her teeth and then suddenly the woman disappeared in a puff of smoke. She turned into a snake and slithered quickly away.
“The fuck?” Ren stepped back and then looked to her arm. She frowned and placed her hand on her shoulder, pressing the wound with force. “The hell was that all about?” Ren spoke and then looked to Ayla. “come on… lets go…”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jul 28, 2016 21:24:07 GMT -5
Ayla seemed to be studying Ren as she spoke of the life that she couldn’t remember. Her eyes glassed over with tears slightly as she thought harder, trying to make herself remember. She wanted to remember Ren, it hurt to think that she couldn’t even remember when they first met. She couldn’t remember how she grew the feelings for this captain that sat before her. Though, her beauty gave away a lot of Ayla’s reasoning. She fumbled slightly and stopped when Ren pointed out that she was just trying to help fill in the gaps. “I….Yeah…” Ayla gave a slight nod. She looked to the pancakes that the waitress set down before her. She lifted the fork as she looked to Ren. “It…I…” She stumbled over her words and then gave a smile. “You know, you’re right.” She nodded to herself, her cheeks still rosy. “Besides, the new memories that I am creating with you are most excellent. You are beautiful Ren.” She took a sip of her coffee and took another bite. She then giggled, the alcohol still guiding her actions.
Once she had finished with her pancakes she smiled to Ren, her cheeks still pink, though mostly from blushing at this point. She stood and slipped her fingers into Ren’s hand as they left the café. “This has been a wonderful--….” She stepped back, her eyes widened. “Ren!” She called as she rushed forward, her eyes lit with a strange haze. She stumbled slightly and shook her head. The fight was over, just as it had begun. The smoke danced around her. “Ren…” She muttered as she lost her balance again. “Why…” She blinked several times and looked around, confusion came over her face. “Why did you do that?” She shook her head again and grit her teeth. Something was wrong. “R-Ren…” She took in a sharp breath before she stepped forward, almost robotically. She trembled and shut her eyes as she placed her hand on Ren’s shoulder. “Ren…You’re….you….are….” She shook her head again, almost like a dog would to rid itself of a fly. The green glow came from her hand and healed the wound almost instantly. She stepped back and held a hand to her head. “What…was…” She shook her head again. She felt as though something was trying to get into her head. She was full of confusion.
She leaned up against the cool wall of the café. “Ayla!” Cassie’s voice came from the distance. She rushed down the silent streets of the city. She ran to her daughter and looked into her eyes that were hazed with a strange red glow. “Hey.” She spoke and looked to Ren. “I got word from the café owner…” She looked over Ren. “Are you alright Ren?” She asked and looked to her bloodied shoulder. She then looked back to Ayla. “Come on.” She took the confused Ayla and pulled her along through the city. “That was a seductress demon, most likely sent by Adriel. He knows we are here, but only those low on the totem pole can get in. There is a spell cast upon our city, Demons cannot enter. However, their little lackeys can get through the wall of magic. Rose still hasn’t figured this out, clearly.” She said gruffly as she pulled Ayla into the shop.
“She attacked that poor girl…” Ayla muttered softly. “She hurt her…why did Ren do that?” She had tears in her eyes. “She wouldn’t do that….Ren wouldn’t ever do that…would she?” She rambled.
“Shhhh, quiet now Ayla.” Cassie spoke as she stepped down the stairs. “Evie.” She called. “Evie.” She said a bit louder and knocked on a bedroom door before she set Ayla on the couch. “Now you sit right here okay?” She gave a gentle smile.
“No…no I can’t trust you!” Ayla cried out, she pushed against her mother. “Let me go!” She cried.
“Ren, hold her down, don’t let her move.” Cassie ordered, she allowed Ren to step in before she stepped away. “Evie!” She pushed the door open. “Get up, I need your assistance.” She then moved about quickly and began gathering things together. “These demons have been getting into the city for years, this isn’t something new. We catch most of them before they are able to put a trance on anyone….” She opened up a large book, it was easily a square foot large. She thumbed through the pages. “Ah.” She stopped.
Evie yawned as she came from the bedroom, she rubbed her eyes. “What’s the….oh…” She looked to Ayla whom fought violently against Ren.
“The good thing is her magic is withheld, at least she can’t use her abilities.” Cassie poured a few things into a bottle and stirred them around.
“Where did this happen?” Evie stepped forward and grabbed a few things. “It’s been years since a demon has gotten someone.” She helped her sister prepare the concoction.
“Let me go!” Ayla screamed, her eyes blood red now. “Let go Ren!” She thrashed against her.
“Don’t let go.” Cassie winced at the decibel of her daughter’s screams. Her eardrum hurt. “There.” She nodded to her sister.
Evie stepped forward and pulled the vile from her sister and then made her way over to Ayla, she began speaking a spell, her eyes lit blue as she spoke. She helped Ren sit her up and she sat behind her and hugged her arms around her before she held the vile to her lips. “Drink, baby Ayla.” She whispered at the end of the spell. She poured the liquid into Ayla’s mouth and then clamped her mouth and nose shut. Ayla’s eyes widened. She stared into Ren’s eyes, fear ran through her as her heart began to race. Moments later Ayla relaxed limply against Evie. Her eyes fluttered as she took in deep breaths. “There.” Evie took in a slow breath. “She’ll be fine in the morning.” She gave a nod to Ren. “Um…you should get some sleep Captain.” She carefully slipped out from beneath her niece and went back to her bedroom. Evie was the only one in the family that knew the spell to rid the trance from that demon. Cassie had been away too long, she couldn’t remember anymore.
Cassie looked to Ren and gave a slight nod. “She will be just fine in the morning.” She reassured Ren before she took in a breath. “We will have to have an eye out of them now. Adriel is going to do anything to get to her.” She shook her head. “I’m surprised he is still after us, the queen is dead.” She scoffed before she left into her own bedroom.
Ayla’s eyes fluttered as she curled into Ren’s abdomen, her head resting just above the captain’s belly button. “R-Ren…” She whispered in her sleep, her fingers wrapped into the material of Ren’s clothing as she gripped onto her.
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